France tells China it still backs 'one country, two systems' for Hong Kong
- Country:
- France
French President Emmanuel Macron has told Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping he is following events in Hong Kong closely and continues to back the "one country, two systems" principle for Beijing's rule over the city, an Elysee official said. "The President said he was monitoring the (Hong Kong) situation closely and reiterated France's support for the principle of 'one country, two systems'," the official told Reuters on Saturday.
China has approved security legislation for Hong Kong that democracy activists, diplomats, and some in business fear will jeopardize its semi-autonomous status and its role as a global financial hub. The legislation has reignited tensions between Washington and Beijing and led the European Union to express "grave concern" last week.
Hong Kong was discussed during an hour and a half phone call on Friday between Macron and Xi, the official said. The Elysee had reported the call in a statement late on Friday without mentioning Hong Kong.
The statement also referred to cooperation in tackling the coronavirus pandemic, saying Macron stressed the essential role of the World Health Organization, blamed by Washington for mishandling the crisis.
(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
ALSO READ
Biden to warn on Beijing's South China Sea moves in Philippines-Japan summit
Taiwan slams Xi Jinping for meeting with former president, says should establish dialogue with current govt
Biden warns on Beijing's South China Sea moves in Philippines-Japan summit
U.S., Japan, Philippines condemn Beijing's South China Sea moves in summit
China top legislator Zhao says Beijing, Pyongyang set on developing friendly relations, KCNA says